The Philadelphia Mural StoryPhiladelphia lures you with thousands of murals, some large, some small. All of them amazing works of art. There's no way to see them all in a short space of time or even a whole day. There are good maps available.Thirty years ago Philadelphia started a Murals Art project as a way to combat graffiti and bring some beauty in otherwise drab and, at times, dangerous neighborhoods. Now the city hosts over 3,500 murals from small whimsical delights to huge take-your-breath-away complicated works of art. It helps at-risk children and adults, gave neighborhoods a focus and a sense of pride. And they became leaders and an example of how art can transform lives. And one very important result, to quote their website, “The Mural Arts Program has also become a national leader in arts in criminal and restorative justice, currently offering educational programs in local prisons and rehabilitation centers using the restorative power of art to break the cycle of crime and violence in communities. Mural Arts offers mural-making programs for adult men and women where inmates receive a stipend to create murals for schools and community centers throughout Philadelphia. Mural Arts also offers opportunities for individuals recently released from prison through its re-entry program.”Philadelphia's murals make a strong case for art revitalising neighborhoods or towns, and it showcases how art enriches individuals lives.All this has led to Philadelphia becoming internationally known as the City of Murals – they've even had Prince Charles dabbling on their one of their murals in progress during one of his visits to the US. It is a visual feast and it is interesting to understand the themes of the murals. Some are clearer than others and some get to you more than others, just like viewing any art. The standard of art is very high and they are all very professionally done. When your stomach reminds you it's time to eat, a fun place to meander through and try different foods is the Reading Terminal Market. There are plenty of different treats or full meals to choose from, as you wander you can nibble on samoosas or brats or soul food. Fancy an Italian or Amish dish? No problem. The market has about 80 stalls selling a variety of interesting eats. The market provide a good map, at a booth near one of the entrances, it includes the market's interesting history. Even if you don't want to buy anything, it's an interesting people watching place.Go back often and explore the Murals throughout Philadelphia, the images here are just a snippet of the wonders awaiting you. The locals are very cheerful and patient with curious visitors driving erratically while trying to get a look at their city's art.